I agree, its a little weird how the vamp and the toebox are essentially one continuous line, but some of the florsheim imperials seem to exhibit this effect as well (from certain angles) and those shoes are held in moderate regard and priced higher

The finish does seem to be on the lower end of the scale, but if it is full on leather, cant you strip it with reno and put down your own finish?

1. Get over the "corrected grain" fixation. It means a lot of different things, and there's a lot of variety in leathers. Even some decent makers use what is technically "corrected" (although they'd call it "polished" as opposed to plain "calf"), often offering both options in the same shoe. Some of it can be very hard-wearing and smart, just as some more natural finishes can still be on shitty leather. If you don't like a shiny finish, or do, it's up to you.

2. These shoes cost $100. At the very worst, they will be worth it. At best, they'll feel like good value.

So, ask yourself if you want $100 shoes, and if so, if you like the look of these. You're not risking a lot if you do, they might turn out to be quite serviceable, but at the same time, they're not going to be John Lobbs in disguise.

I'm curious what the opinions are on a suit under 2000. As a graduation present, I think my wife may be willing to splurge (to our standards) and I would like it to be on a high quality suit. Right now I live in New York, and as I plan on leaving the State, I'd like to take advantage of the great shops around here.

So my question is, what are the opinions on the best suit I can buy in that price range in New York City.

Do you want Ready-to-Wear or Made-to-Measure? For RTW, I like Paul Stuart or Brooks Brothers Golden Fleece.

That's a lot like khaki-colored chinos with black shoes. I understand this is a well regarded combination in terms of military uniforms, but most people (not all, of course) find it somewhat unappealing outside that context.

In general, beige pants and brown shoes works great. Beige pants and shoes in one of the "wine" shades - burgundy, merlot, etc. - works fine. But beige pants and black shoes will strike many as a mistake.

Could it be done successfully? Yeah, probably. I've certainly seen worse combinations made to work, on a handful of occasions. But it's not a challenge I'd choose to tackle, if brown shoes were available. And brown shoes are common enough that they're usually available.

Honesty compels me to admit that I have worn beige pants with black horse bit loafers, a few times. The world didn't end. But just because I've done something, doesn't necessarily mean that I recommend it.